Coffee Breaks Down Barriers as Police Generals Meet Ojol Drivers in Jepara

The atmosphere at Kopinan 24 Jam in Jepara on Saturday afternoon, 30 May, was notably different. Hundreds of green and orange jackets typical of online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers filled the café. But instead of waiting for ride requests, they sat casually, chatting and sipping coffee with police officers during the ‘Polantas Menyapa’ event. This was no mere ceremonial agenda; the event, initiated by Korlantas Polri and Jepara Police Traffic Unit, was attended by Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, Chief of Korlantas Polri; Chief Commissioner Pratama Adhyasastra, Director of Traffic for Central Java Police; and Assistant Commissioner Hadi Kristanto, Jepara Police Chief, along with their officers. Choosing a coffee shop as the venue proved effective in easing tensions, instantly breaking down barriers between law enforcement and the public in a relaxed atmosphere. During the casual discussion, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho emphasised that the ‘Polantas Menyapa dan Melayani’ programme was a direct instruction from the National Police Chief, aiming to change public perceptions of traffic police. ‘We want traffic police to no longer be seen merely as rigid law enforcers, but as friends, servants, and partners always present among the community,’ he said. He also hoped this moment would serve as a bridge for closer communication in the future, stating that ojol communities and the police must collaborate in the spirit of brotherhood. Meanwhile, Jepara Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Hadi Kristanto explained that the event was designed as a two-way communication space, with police wanting to hear directly about the realities faced by drivers on the ground. ‘We want to hear the grievances, inputs, and challenges faced by our ojol colleagues. To us, they are strategic partners in achieving Kamseltibcarlantas (road safety, security, public order, and traffic flow) in Jepara,’ he said. This proactive approach received high praise from the ojol community. One attending driver expressed delight at being able to speak directly to generals without feeling uneasy. ‘We are very grateful. Through such casual events, we no longer feel afraid or shy to voice our aspirations and challenges on the road. Today, we truly feel supported and attended to,’ he added.